INNISKEEN ROAD JULY EVENING FESTIVAL

Patrick Kavanagh’s work is rooted in his native Inniskeen landscape.
Working on the family farm in 1930’s/1940’s Inniskeen, witnessing daily the miracle of creation, Kavanagh began to write of his experiences and became the ‘authentic voice of the Irish country poor.

Since his death in 1967, the growing popularity of his work among diverse cultures and age groups have proven the eternity of Kavanagh’s magic-fringed everyday world.

The Inniskeen Road July Evening Festival is a celebration of his work.

We invite you to walk or cycle through Kavanagh Country in 1920’s/30’s costume. Prizes for the best costumes.
Enjoy recitals/re-enactments at many of the sites immortalised by the poet.
Drink tea and join in the storytelling or recite your favourite poem at Billy Brennan’s Barn.
The weekend will come to a close with a BBQ and music at Inniskeen Social Club on Sunday evening 14th July, at 6pm.

In short, this will be a feast of outdoor events including Literature, Music, Song, Drama and Storytelling.
We hope to see you there!!

For more information: Phone the Patrick Kavanagh Centre on

Mobile 087 171 0592

Inniskeen Road: July Evening

The bicycles go by in twos and threes –There’s a dance in Billy Brennan’s barn tonight,And there’s the half-talk code of mysteriesAnd the wink-and-elbow language of delight.Half-past eight and there is not a spotUpon a mile of road, no shadow thrownThat might turn out a man or woman, notA footfall tapping secrecies of stone.

I have what every poet hates in spiteOf all the solemn talk of contemplation.Oh, Alexander Selkirk knew the plightOf being king and government and nation.A road, a mile of kingdom. I am kingOf banks and stones and every blooming thing.